Garlic shrimp pasta is a flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic-infused sauce. The pasta is cooked al dente and coated in a creamy blend of garlic, butter, and olive oil. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a balance of savory flavors and satisfying textures.
The garlic shrimp pasta is an easy-to-make, yet delicious recipe that brings together fresh ingredients in just a few simple steps. It’s an ideal choice for seafood lovers, blending the sweetness of shrimp with the bold taste of garlic and herbs. Serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Shrimp Pasta
This garlic shrimp pasta comes together in just 20 minutes! It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner when you need something delicious but don’t have much time. You’ll love how simple it is to make!
The garlic butter sauce adds a rich, savory taste that pairs perfectly with the shrimp and pasta. It’s full of fresh flavors that will make your taste buds dance, making this dish irresistible.
Loaded with protein from the shrimp and healthy fats from the olive oil, this garlic shrimp pasta is a nutritious choice. You can enjoy a filling meal without feeling heavy, making it a great option for lunch or dinner.
You can easily adjust this recipe to suit your preferences. Add some veggies like spinach or bell peppers, or switch the pasta for a gluten-free option. The possibilities are endless!
Ingredient Notes for Garlic Shrimp Pasta
- Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp works well in this recipe. Peel and devein them for easy eating.
- Spaghetti Pasta: Traditional spaghetti is the best choice, but you can swap it for other pasta types like linguine or fettuccine if preferred.
- Garlic: Minced garlic adds rich flavor to the pasta. Fresh garlic is always best for a strong, bold taste.
- Olive Oil: A light olive oil adds flavor while helping to cook the shrimp and garlic evenly.
- Butter: Adds a rich, creamy texture and balances the garlic’s sharpness.
- Dry White Wine: Enhances the dish’s depth of flavor. Use a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, for a great result.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a subtle heat to the pasta without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning the pasta and bringing out the flavors of the shrimp and garlic.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds color and a fresh, herbaceous note to the finished dish.
- Lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty kick.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese gives the pasta a salty, savory finish that perfectly complements the garlic shrimp.
Pre-preparation of Garlic Shrimp Pasta
- Thaw the Shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them before cooking. This can be done by placing them in a bowl of cold water for 15-20 minutes.
- Boil the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and cook your favorite pasta, like spaghetti or linguine, according to the package instructions (usually around 8-10 minutes). Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Mince the Garlic: Peel and finely chop the garlic cloves. Fresh garlic is key to creating the bold flavor in this dish.
- Chop the Parsley: Finely chop fresh parsley to add freshness and color to the dish.
How to Make Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
To create this flavorful Garlic Shrimp Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (spaghetti or linguine)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup (120ml) dry white wine
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
- Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling the pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, saving a cup of pasta water.
- Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turns pink and is cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and stir, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the pan. Let the liquid simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the garlic sauce. If needed, add some of the reserved pasta water to help coat the pasta in the sauce. Add the shrimp back into the skillet and toss everything together.
- Finish the Dish: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta and sprinkle with chopped parsley. For a creamy variation, add a splash of heavy cream. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese (optional).
Garlic Shrimp Pasta Variation
There are several ways to make your garlic shrimp pasta unique. You can switch up the ingredients or even add extra elements to suit your taste. For example, consider adding vegetables such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms. You can also swap the white wine for lemon juice or chicken broth to give the sauce a different flavor profile.
If you love cheese, top your dish with freshly grated Parmesan or mozzarella. For a creamier version, you can stir in a bit of heavy cream or cream cheese to create a luscious, rich sauce. The beauty of garlic shrimp pasta is that it’s highly adaptable, so feel free to experiment with different variations based on what you have on hand.
How to Serve Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Garlic shrimp pasta can be served in a variety of ways. For a more elegant presentation, plate the pasta in a large bowl or deep plate, topping it with the shrimp and sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley, lemon zest, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for an added zing.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread to balance out the flavors. If you’re serving this for a special occasion, consider pairing it with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, to enhance the flavors of the shrimp and garlic.
Storage Options
Garlic shrimp pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, it’s best to warm it gently on the stove with a bit of olive oil or butter to keep it moist. If you prefer, you can also use a microwave on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from drying out.
While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze garlic shrimp pasta for later use. To do this, place the cooled pasta and shrimp in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently.
FAQs About Garlic Shrimp Pasta
How long does it take to make garlic shrimp pasta?
Garlic shrimp pasta takes around 20-30 minutes to make, depending on the cooking method. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy nights.
Can I make garlic shrimp pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare garlic shrimp pasta ahead of time, but it’s best to store the shrimp and pasta separately. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.
Is garlic shrimp pasta a healthy meal?
Garlic shrimp pasta can be healthy if you use whole wheat pasta and control the amount of butter and oil. Shrimp is a lean protein, making it a good option for a balanced meal.
Can I use a different type of pasta for garlic shrimp pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne. The pasta choice won’t affect the flavor of the garlic shrimp sauce.
